Over the years, I have told many stories about Talladega and you may or may not have garnered that this is an event that we look forward to every single time it comes around.
All good things have beginnings and my muse reminded me, this one has an auspicious beginning, although it didn't really seem so at the time.
It started with a dream. When The Senior Chief and I got married, I was not a race fan. I have become one over the years, but something he always mentioned was wanting to see Talladega live.
This particular year had been a rough one. It so happened that number one son was turning sixteen, I do believe. Anyway, we thought it would be cool to have a father-son deal for his birthday. A coming of age, if you will.
Getting the boy to graduate was proving to be more of a challenge than we were prepared to deal with. A chore, even. Not to mention much other stress like layoffs and work drama...
So, the senior chief and I were enjoying a rare day off together, discussing the situation of the time and the phone rings.
I turned to the senior chief and said, gee, I hope that's not the school. One could say I had a premonition, in a way..
It turned out to indeed be the school. He had been busted with the mary jane in class, and narc'd me out for it, in a nutshell.
That was a pleasant conversation with the resource officer, principal, and guidance counselor. Hey, they backed off. I had been trying to get him help for awhile. And I mean educational help. He is dyslexic and never really got proper teaching to help compensate it and that year in high school, he was really having a tough time. Asking for help has always been a hard thing for him to do.
So, we get the punishment, which was a 10 day suspension, and come home.
The senior chief was pretty sad to hear the story. His reaction was just damn. I guess that means Talladega is cancelled. But, you know, I couldn't bring myself to cancel the kid's birthday and that was a birthday present. You know? I mean, yeah, he should have been punished, but taking away his birthday just seemed mean.
So, they went to Talladega and had their father son time. That remains between them, and that was part of the point. I had the feeling that it worked because for the whole suspension, that boy worked his ass off, and we spent some good time talking about stuff. I mean, he worked his ass off. He did it with a good attitude, though, and that was pretty cool.
He wound up repeating that grade, but he did better the second time around and graduated. That was a proud moment.
It sucked ass at the time, but in the long run, things turned out ok in the end. He is up and ready to go to work, work hard, impress the customers any time there is work to do. Any time. We couldn't do what we are doing business wise without him.
The spirit of Talladega has evolved though, that for those four days, we are a family just enjoying each other. All differences and any drama that might exist is put completely on hold, and we just spend the weekend having fun together. Pure fun.
But you have to earn it. Number one rule. You have to have worked hard in school all year. Funny, but the one who caused all this trouble is now the enforcer.
But, on the same token, if we have to yell at you while at Talladega, you are going to crawl in your tent crying and not come out for the rest of the night. That is because Talladega is about swift and just punishment too. He who fucks with the spirit of Talladega, gets sent to bed. And the kids know this. We've had a rookie or two over the years that we had to break in, but all in all, we strive to maintain the spirit of Talladega.
Hey, it all turns out all right in the end.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Again...
No drunk blogging for this gal. Tried it one more time...it just doesn't work for me. I lose articulation somewhere.
Anyway, the topic of my last rant was social networking sites. Good GAWD.
I've never really been a real social person anyway, and those sites...just piss me off. I mean, I guess there are a ton of people out there that live in the past and had some sense of going downhill..or whatever...
I don't understand it really. To me, the past is the past and that's where it needs to stay. It's nice to know people are around and whatnot but there is a reason that people like that ...well, there's a reason that they are part of your past, and not your present.
I have people from the past that are part of my present. They didn't slip away. There's a reason for that.
I have a token profile just so I can monitor my kids, but I do not want to visit with people from the past all day long. Most of them just pissed me off anyway. And still do.
I suppose there is some value in being reminded of that from time to time, but ugh. Done with that for a while.
Anyway, the topic of my last rant was social networking sites. Good GAWD.
I've never really been a real social person anyway, and those sites...just piss me off. I mean, I guess there are a ton of people out there that live in the past and had some sense of going downhill..or whatever...
I don't understand it really. To me, the past is the past and that's where it needs to stay. It's nice to know people are around and whatnot but there is a reason that people like that ...well, there's a reason that they are part of your past, and not your present.
I have people from the past that are part of my present. They didn't slip away. There's a reason for that.
I have a token profile just so I can monitor my kids, but I do not want to visit with people from the past all day long. Most of them just pissed me off anyway. And still do.
I suppose there is some value in being reminded of that from time to time, but ugh. Done with that for a while.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Noise Overload...
I do this thing around here..I yell all the time. I talk REALLY loud. I just do because I cannot ever hear myself think.
I mean the level of background noise everywhere in this house is phenomenal. If you're in the garage, it's the heater or the fan, (weather dependant), the tv or the radio and you know there's surround sound everywhere. Then there's the outside noise and the washer and the dryer nearby. And with this many people, the washer and dryer are pretty much in continuous use.
To walk from the garage to the kitchen, you are now entering the "war zone" and it's whatever war game they are playing and believe me, it's realistic enough and loud enough that you want to duck for cover. And the radio, etc.
So, when I get on the phone, I forget that they aren't absorbing my background noise. And I yell. Sorry. It's really not personal to anyone.
I mean the level of background noise everywhere in this house is phenomenal. If you're in the garage, it's the heater or the fan, (weather dependant), the tv or the radio and you know there's surround sound everywhere. Then there's the outside noise and the washer and the dryer nearby. And with this many people, the washer and dryer are pretty much in continuous use.
To walk from the garage to the kitchen, you are now entering the "war zone" and it's whatever war game they are playing and believe me, it's realistic enough and loud enough that you want to duck for cover. And the radio, etc.
So, when I get on the phone, I forget that they aren't absorbing my background noise. And I yell. Sorry. It's really not personal to anyone.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
You Don't Scare Me.
I do not care who ya are. And when you're talking kids...please..you think an 11 year old being pissed off at me cuz I'm MEAN for making him eat his vegetables is even going to mess with my day?
My kids are allowed to get mad at me. It doesn't scare me...I don't give a shit. What they have to do is what I tell them when it comes to that. As long as they do it...they can feel any way they want. They can bitch all they want...it's a free country...hell, I even encourage them to make an argument for what they want. Makes them do research and understand a few things.
But, while they need me, and their way isn't working...they get to do it my way. My way will get them what they want. And nobody wants to not contribute something in some way to some where.
So the hell what if they're mad? They'll get over it. Or they won't...whatever. But, I'm still not scared.
My kids are allowed to get mad at me. It doesn't scare me...I don't give a shit. What they have to do is what I tell them when it comes to that. As long as they do it...they can feel any way they want. They can bitch all they want...it's a free country...hell, I even encourage them to make an argument for what they want. Makes them do research and understand a few things.
But, while they need me, and their way isn't working...they get to do it my way. My way will get them what they want. And nobody wants to not contribute something in some way to some where.
So the hell what if they're mad? They'll get over it. Or they won't...whatever. But, I'm still not scared.
Alrighty..finally a rest.
I have been kicking some kid ass all day. I mean, for crying out loud, I do not HIDE my trashcans. They are right out there in the open for any and all to find.
Look, the kids don't really bother me at all. It's simple really...I choose my battles and when I choose one, it is simply a done deal as far as I am concerned. I am stubborn enough and I take a little while making a decision sometimes, but once it's made...it is made.
For example. Going to school, getting passing grades, and graduating are all things that are just going to happen. There are no other choices. These are things as important as eating and drinking the right foods. You don't have a choice, you have to do it. Period.
Having a job is another of those. I have never had to threaten any of them. They just understood that this kind of stuff ...was.
Some things...are not an option ..are not to be considered and it's funny how they always seem to come around. I mean, quitting...I won't have a quitter. We don't quit. You keep trying until you have exhausted every single last option...hey, that's just how I roll.
And there isn't any point arguing either, cuz I have...no fear. Do not care. I am not afraid to fight my battles for myself and fight to win. I always win. Please, I beat them bastards (the kids..all of them) at their own game.
There is nothing wrong with playing hard. You gotta work hard first. Me and the senior chief work hard. We do. And those kids...do not rule us.
I am pretty much a bitch too. I have no problem throwing people out of my house that I don't like. And, I don't mean family members, but I mean those that would take advantage of things. I have no problem whatsoever, again, fighting the battle I chose.
One of the surrogate kids came over the other day...presumed to walk in my house...and then go and way my day sleeper up. Oh hell the hell no...you understand? I went down the stairs, kicked his ass right on out. And, I turned off the smoking lamp in the garage, just cuz I was feeling peckish. And honey, every time I do something like that, all kinds of stuff gets done for me around here.
Yeah, it's fine to be here, but you do not just make it all about yo' sorry ass...oh and then...then I went and called his girlfriend..to give her a little girl moral support and let her know she did the right thing by kicking his ass to the curb...only she had given her cell phone to him. That was a little awkward, but I did remind him that he beat her ass on quite a few occasions and he was a little control freak, since he wanted to call back and be confrontational. Yeah, that little prick was a bad seed.
I hate to say that, but it is what it is and I have absolutely no problem saying a damn thing to anybody's face that I would say to anybody else. I mean, obviously, I would have preferred to not be in that position..but since little dude wanted to get all....bajiggity...I'll take care of it.
It's wierd, I cannot help it. I am very much a 'warrior woman'. I want to know where Valhalla is, too..but..the point being...is that this particular characteristic..is good and bad. Like most things.
But, as usual, I've been interrupted at least 25 times for the stupidest shit while trying to write this post and once again, it sounds disjointed and like I've been interrupted every 2 fucking seconds and now, I'm damn aggravated.
I swear to GOD I know it is not too much to ask to have enough time to formulate a thought and a sentence. It is not too much to ask to have people put trash in the actual trashcans and to actually change the toilet paper roll. I know it isn't. And if I don't start getting some damn cooperation from these spawns of messiness, then I am going to lose my ever loving mind. I will have a clean house. It is now just one of those things. It happens exactly like this.
There are no more options. See, I'm done with it. They will take the trash out and help me keep this place clean. I am not the fucking maid. I am much smarter than that and my talents can do other things for the family. Not that I won't take care of my own messes and help organize the field days and all that...but ...being the chief bottle washer..oh hell no.
The senior chief just gets to come home and relax....really. Mostly. His job is to take care of the vehicles. Oh and there is no more sharing my vehicle with those that have a job. Unless of course, they pay rent. Anyhoo...I am in charge...and these folks better just look on out.
So, there. I know I said no more drinking and blogging, but you can blame CharlieDelta for that...hehe....
And, his blog mommma. (hehe)
Look, the kids don't really bother me at all. It's simple really...I choose my battles and when I choose one, it is simply a done deal as far as I am concerned. I am stubborn enough and I take a little while making a decision sometimes, but once it's made...it is made.
For example. Going to school, getting passing grades, and graduating are all things that are just going to happen. There are no other choices. These are things as important as eating and drinking the right foods. You don't have a choice, you have to do it. Period.
Having a job is another of those. I have never had to threaten any of them. They just understood that this kind of stuff ...was.
Some things...are not an option ..are not to be considered and it's funny how they always seem to come around. I mean, quitting...I won't have a quitter. We don't quit. You keep trying until you have exhausted every single last option...hey, that's just how I roll.
And there isn't any point arguing either, cuz I have...no fear. Do not care. I am not afraid to fight my battles for myself and fight to win. I always win. Please, I beat them bastards (the kids..all of them) at their own game.
There is nothing wrong with playing hard. You gotta work hard first. Me and the senior chief work hard. We do. And those kids...do not rule us.
I am pretty much a bitch too. I have no problem throwing people out of my house that I don't like. And, I don't mean family members, but I mean those that would take advantage of things. I have no problem whatsoever, again, fighting the battle I chose.
One of the surrogate kids came over the other day...presumed to walk in my house...and then go and way my day sleeper up. Oh hell the hell no...you understand? I went down the stairs, kicked his ass right on out. And, I turned off the smoking lamp in the garage, just cuz I was feeling peckish. And honey, every time I do something like that, all kinds of stuff gets done for me around here.
Yeah, it's fine to be here, but you do not just make it all about yo' sorry ass...oh and then...then I went and called his girlfriend..to give her a little girl moral support and let her know she did the right thing by kicking his ass to the curb...only she had given her cell phone to him. That was a little awkward, but I did remind him that he beat her ass on quite a few occasions and he was a little control freak, since he wanted to call back and be confrontational. Yeah, that little prick was a bad seed.
I hate to say that, but it is what it is and I have absolutely no problem saying a damn thing to anybody's face that I would say to anybody else. I mean, obviously, I would have preferred to not be in that position..but since little dude wanted to get all....bajiggity...I'll take care of it.
It's wierd, I cannot help it. I am very much a 'warrior woman'. I want to know where Valhalla is, too..but..the point being...is that this particular characteristic..is good and bad. Like most things.
But, as usual, I've been interrupted at least 25 times for the stupidest shit while trying to write this post and once again, it sounds disjointed and like I've been interrupted every 2 fucking seconds and now, I'm damn aggravated.
I swear to GOD I know it is not too much to ask to have enough time to formulate a thought and a sentence. It is not too much to ask to have people put trash in the actual trashcans and to actually change the toilet paper roll. I know it isn't. And if I don't start getting some damn cooperation from these spawns of messiness, then I am going to lose my ever loving mind. I will have a clean house. It is now just one of those things. It happens exactly like this.
There are no more options. See, I'm done with it. They will take the trash out and help me keep this place clean. I am not the fucking maid. I am much smarter than that and my talents can do other things for the family. Not that I won't take care of my own messes and help organize the field days and all that...but ...being the chief bottle washer..oh hell no.
The senior chief just gets to come home and relax....really. Mostly. His job is to take care of the vehicles. Oh and there is no more sharing my vehicle with those that have a job. Unless of course, they pay rent. Anyhoo...I am in charge...and these folks better just look on out.
So, there. I know I said no more drinking and blogging, but you can blame CharlieDelta for that...hehe....
And, his blog mommma. (hehe)
Monday, February 16, 2009
Daytona 500
Y'all know we watched it...and had an accompanying feast. There were only 4 peeps to enjoy it, but actually, that is cool because I don't have to slave in the kitchen today.
Now, to matters at hand. I am not a Junior fan. Sorry, I know that's politically uncorrect these days, but I'm just not.
HOWEVER, I do not believe that he wrecked Vickers on purpose. I DO think it was just a racing deal and I believe him when he said he was just getting back on the track.
Now, to matters at hand. I am not a Junior fan. Sorry, I know that's politically uncorrect these days, but I'm just not.
HOWEVER, I do not believe that he wrecked Vickers on purpose. I DO think it was just a racing deal and I believe him when he said he was just getting back on the track.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Thoughts about Thoughts...
I am sitting here this morning, sipping my Dr. Pepper, reading a little on the internet, trying not to have a cigarette, but that's a whole different blog...
Anyway, all I've been bombarded with the last couple of days is how Jessica Simpson has lost some weight. I really hate reading anything like that kind of crap in the news or anywhere, really. But then, I do see how the whole world feels like a family..but still.
First of all, I'd like to say that I think from the pictures shown, she looks good. As a matter of fact, I think she looks good enough that she was probably a little underweight before.
But, I don't pay much attention to stuff like that except a while back I read an article blasting the French Justice Minister looking too good and going back to work too soon after having a baby (5 days, apparently) and then in the same article blasted Sarah Palin for the same thing.. (a couple of weeks in her case). Not to mention all the ugliness over her child.
Why is it our media is soooo high school? I honestly thought when I grew up that people would be bigger than that, better than that. No wonder people get stuck in the past, that was when you were too stupid to know just how mean people are. I mean, who the hell knew that in high school, that was as good as people got? I find myself sadly disappointed when I sit to read the news most days, and mostly because of that. When did all articles become "opinion" pieces. Jeez, they might as well be bloggers.
Anyway, a post about nothing and everything, really.
Anyway, all I've been bombarded with the last couple of days is how Jessica Simpson has lost some weight. I really hate reading anything like that kind of crap in the news or anywhere, really. But then, I do see how the whole world feels like a family..but still.
First of all, I'd like to say that I think from the pictures shown, she looks good. As a matter of fact, I think she looks good enough that she was probably a little underweight before.
But, I don't pay much attention to stuff like that except a while back I read an article blasting the French Justice Minister looking too good and going back to work too soon after having a baby (5 days, apparently) and then in the same article blasted Sarah Palin for the same thing.. (a couple of weeks in her case). Not to mention all the ugliness over her child.
Why is it our media is soooo high school? I honestly thought when I grew up that people would be bigger than that, better than that. No wonder people get stuck in the past, that was when you were too stupid to know just how mean people are. I mean, who the hell knew that in high school, that was as good as people got? I find myself sadly disappointed when I sit to read the news most days, and mostly because of that. When did all articles become "opinion" pieces. Jeez, they might as well be bloggers.
Anyway, a post about nothing and everything, really.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Friday Night Party
Hello and welcome. I think this may actually be the first regular feature I have here. I've been searching for awhile..
To start off with we have snacks…hor something in french…well, we have beers to start off with ..(or soda and water for the nondrinkers). Then we have wings, cheese, crackers, chips, dip, and beer. Did I mention beer?
For the main meal, we have chicken, rice pilaf, and green beans (Kelly Style). Look, I don't really make the same thing twice, and neither do I record the good things. I just create and the guys eat. They don't blow smoke up my ass.
That's why I love them.
Then, we're having some ...adult beverages and watching the truck race. Then, me and the senior chief are going to disappear for a little while, hoping that we are not the only veterans..but we are in this atmosphere.
Anyhoo...cheers to y'all!
To start off with we have snacks…hor something in french…well, we have beers to start off with ..(or soda and water for the nondrinkers). Then we have wings, cheese, crackers, chips, dip, and beer. Did I mention beer?
For the main meal, we have chicken, rice pilaf, and green beans (Kelly Style). Look, I don't really make the same thing twice, and neither do I record the good things. I just create and the guys eat. They don't blow smoke up my ass.
That's why I love them.
Then, we're having some ...adult beverages and watching the truck race. Then, me and the senior chief are going to disappear for a little while, hoping that we are not the only veterans..but we are in this atmosphere.
Anyhoo...cheers to y'all!
Favorite Toys
It's important to have toys. It's important to remember how to play.
Spending as much time around kids that I do, I realize it's only as we become adults, so many things are driven into our heads..responsibility, duty, obligation...that we get so bogged down with stuff and forget to play.
Kids are what you would call resilient. They can have a bad day and it's all better as soon as they get home and get to play.
Animals play a lot too. I watch the dogs playing with their toys together. I watch the cat play a lot too. They don't have to be expensive toys...for the cat, a string will do. But, they play every single day nonetheless. I'm grateful for the animals and the children for making me play with them every day and helping me relearn this lesson.
Many adults have forgotten to just play. Nope, we can't play because we're worried about this, that or the other thing and if we aren't worried, then we have an endless amount of chores we've assigned ourselves. Then, some, when they get a chance to play...play way too hard. It becomes a binge thing...
We schedule our play time and make it as regimented as the rest of our lives. Somehow, our lives get more and more structured and more and more scheduled and we begin to forget to schedule that play time. You know, most adults call it a "vacation" but when was the last time many took a vacation in the purest sense? Two weeks of unadulterated play time....
And is two weeks a year enough play time? I don't think so.
I am going to play today...I hope you do too.
Spending as much time around kids that I do, I realize it's only as we become adults, so many things are driven into our heads..responsibility, duty, obligation...that we get so bogged down with stuff and forget to play.
Kids are what you would call resilient. They can have a bad day and it's all better as soon as they get home and get to play.
Animals play a lot too. I watch the dogs playing with their toys together. I watch the cat play a lot too. They don't have to be expensive toys...for the cat, a string will do. But, they play every single day nonetheless. I'm grateful for the animals and the children for making me play with them every day and helping me relearn this lesson.
Many adults have forgotten to just play. Nope, we can't play because we're worried about this, that or the other thing and if we aren't worried, then we have an endless amount of chores we've assigned ourselves. Then, some, when they get a chance to play...play way too hard. It becomes a binge thing...
We schedule our play time and make it as regimented as the rest of our lives. Somehow, our lives get more and more structured and more and more scheduled and we begin to forget to schedule that play time. You know, most adults call it a "vacation" but when was the last time many took a vacation in the purest sense? Two weeks of unadulterated play time....
And is two weeks a year enough play time? I don't think so.
I am going to play today...I hope you do too.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
In Case You Haven't Noticed..
The Senior Chief is on a bit of a roll. Some of you have...I get to live with him so I get the benefit of his words all the time. However, if you hadn't noticed..go on over and take a look.
He says it better than I can...
He says it better than I can...
Economics..
Look, I am not economist at all. I haven't a clue about what makes the economy go round except that supply and demand thing. I am good at picking trends, too.
HOME economics, though, you can believe that I have a grip on. I don't know about all this stimulus crap and whatnot..what I do know is that when us little people spend more than we have, bad shit happens. You know, repossessions and levies and all kinds of nasty stuff. In HOME economics, when you start writing checks when you don't have money to back it, then you can go to jail.
To me, you have got to have more money come in than go out. That's how I run MY house anyway. If I can foresee that we are in danger of doing that, you better believe that there are things that get cut IMMEDIATELY out of the budget. It can go to bare needs in a hurry if I pick the trend going that way. And my definition of bare necessities certainly doesn't include a corporate jet or trips that other people pay for. The rest of us have to pay our bills, or there are severe consequences.
So, why are there no severe consequences for these people that brought us to this brink of economic disaster, if you read the news? Why is it that their punishment is a cap on their salary ...and capped it's more money than I am ever going to see in my lifetime.
What are these people doing with their money? I mean, why do you need to spend that much money a year on a NANNY? Geez, why would you even have kids if you aren't going to raise them. I would never have a nanny if I had that much money. I'd have a maid.. for sure..
I mean, seriously, whoever is running those households where they need that much money just to survive..they need to be taken to task, as well.
It all smells of utter horseshit to me. If I can raise productive citizens without all that crap, then other people can too. And, if the average ordinary person is penalized for not paying their bills, then the people at the top should doubly so be penalized.
Where is the equality? Why is it that a few can drive the many? It's not right. It feels to me like we just wrote a big ol' check that we can't back. If we had that much money just laying around, then surely we wouldn't be in this position in the first place? And, like us little people that spend money we don't have..there should be consequences.
That is what I know.
HOME economics, though, you can believe that I have a grip on. I don't know about all this stimulus crap and whatnot..what I do know is that when us little people spend more than we have, bad shit happens. You know, repossessions and levies and all kinds of nasty stuff. In HOME economics, when you start writing checks when you don't have money to back it, then you can go to jail.
To me, you have got to have more money come in than go out. That's how I run MY house anyway. If I can foresee that we are in danger of doing that, you better believe that there are things that get cut IMMEDIATELY out of the budget. It can go to bare needs in a hurry if I pick the trend going that way. And my definition of bare necessities certainly doesn't include a corporate jet or trips that other people pay for. The rest of us have to pay our bills, or there are severe consequences.
So, why are there no severe consequences for these people that brought us to this brink of economic disaster, if you read the news? Why is it that their punishment is a cap on their salary ...and capped it's more money than I am ever going to see in my lifetime.
What are these people doing with their money? I mean, why do you need to spend that much money a year on a NANNY? Geez, why would you even have kids if you aren't going to raise them. I would never have a nanny if I had that much money. I'd have a maid.. for sure..
I mean, seriously, whoever is running those households where they need that much money just to survive..they need to be taken to task, as well.
It all smells of utter horseshit to me. If I can raise productive citizens without all that crap, then other people can too. And, if the average ordinary person is penalized for not paying their bills, then the people at the top should doubly so be penalized.
Where is the equality? Why is it that a few can drive the many? It's not right. It feels to me like we just wrote a big ol' check that we can't back. If we had that much money just laying around, then surely we wouldn't be in this position in the first place? And, like us little people that spend money we don't have..there should be consequences.
That is what I know.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Boogity, boogity, boogity...
It's officially racing season! I am so glad. There is a sense of continuity and rhythm to the racing season. Hey, it's all about the family bond, really. Something we can all do together that we all can have fun doing.
It's also the signal that warmer weather is coming soon and with that, sunshine and fun stuff.
Every family has their different things that they bond over. We did a lot of bonding down by the fire pit, roasting marshmellows and whatnot. Always ghost stories. And, racing. We have a huge grill station set up so the kitchen can move to the fire pit.
This particular silly season was sillier than ever with all kinds of new rules to allow people to get into the specialty races like the Budweiser shootout, which was last night.
I think it's important for a family to have a common activity that they do regularly together. Some make it about eating supper together, others do the Sunday church thing, we do racing.
With so many being adults, it's hard to fix an exact time every day to get together, but someone is usually around for the race and they seem to work harder to get that time off.
It's not all about the race, necessarily, either. There is a lot of bonding over food during the race time. One of the kids told me the other day that SuperBowl Sunday counts as a holiday if you look at it from a food point of view. That kind of made me laugh.
Having to be a hard ass all the time, it's important to me, too, to be able to just play with the kids now and then. It's important for them, too. It lets them know that you aren't just a bitch or an asshole or whatever. It takes the sting out of having to be such a hard ass all the time...for everybody.
I wonder what other families do to play together?
It's also the signal that warmer weather is coming soon and with that, sunshine and fun stuff.
Every family has their different things that they bond over. We did a lot of bonding down by the fire pit, roasting marshmellows and whatnot. Always ghost stories. And, racing. We have a huge grill station set up so the kitchen can move to the fire pit.
This particular silly season was sillier than ever with all kinds of new rules to allow people to get into the specialty races like the Budweiser shootout, which was last night.
I think it's important for a family to have a common activity that they do regularly together. Some make it about eating supper together, others do the Sunday church thing, we do racing.
With so many being adults, it's hard to fix an exact time every day to get together, but someone is usually around for the race and they seem to work harder to get that time off.
It's not all about the race, necessarily, either. There is a lot of bonding over food during the race time. One of the kids told me the other day that SuperBowl Sunday counts as a holiday if you look at it from a food point of view. That kind of made me laugh.
Having to be a hard ass all the time, it's important to me, too, to be able to just play with the kids now and then. It's important for them, too. It lets them know that you aren't just a bitch or an asshole or whatever. It takes the sting out of having to be such a hard ass all the time...for everybody.
I wonder what other families do to play together?
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Battles...
When you have a bunch of kids, you can be assured that at any given time, one of them is going to have an..issue..to deal with.
The issues could be anything really, depending upon the age of the child. After about the third time of dealing with a particular issue, you start to see a pattern.
You can count on issues in what I term transitional years. With the first three, I started seeing a slack off in school in the third grade, because they went to an intermediate school and that was a new year, new school, more expectations, etc.
Living here, I've noticed it in the fifth grade. That damn show does NOT help, either, let me tell ya. It puts a bit of pressure on that age group in one way, and then in another, they get the sense that they are smarter than you ...way too young.
So, the youngest kid is in the fifth grade this year and every freaking morning since the beginning of school we have damn near the same conversation. It starts the night before..the moaning and the groaning and acting sick. I don't even want to get up in the morning sometimes, knowing how it's all going to end..with him crying...
Then in the morning, it's the same..moaning and groaning and whining...I'm siiiick. My ass, is what I think in my head, but what comes out of my mouth is..
Ok, but since you're up, why don't you take a shower and have breakfast and then we'll see how you're feeling then. Most mornings I just play along and coax him through, except for the bitchy week and then he's just gonna cry all morning because I have zero patience.
Lately, the homework has been a big issue for him. I have been fighting and fighting with him.
A few weeks ago...I quit. I quit fighting with him. He now has several zeros and is in danger of failing everything if he doesn't get this work done.
Those zeros...spoke a hell of a lot louder than my nagging. Well, the combination of them both. I told him every day I was on his ass because I want him to do well. He didn't believe me. He just thought I was being mean to him or picking on him or whatever.
Sometimes, you have to ...show... them. Let them feel the pain. Now, if they don't care that they have zeroes, that's a different problem altogether.
I wrote a note to his teacher and she sent home all his missing work and would you believe..that boy flung his little arms around me and said Thank You? Ha! He got half of it done in one afternoon for crying out loud. And he learned the lesson that if you just do a little bit at a time, then you don't have to sweat it. You have as much free time as you had before and it's better because it isn't clouded with worry about what you haven't done yet.
Anyway, sometimes, I do let my children fail. Children should understand failure, how it occurs and what to do about it, and therefore how to prevent it. It's better to teach that to them young...while you still have a chance to turn it around. The lesson remains a lot longer, too.
The issues could be anything really, depending upon the age of the child. After about the third time of dealing with a particular issue, you start to see a pattern.
You can count on issues in what I term transitional years. With the first three, I started seeing a slack off in school in the third grade, because they went to an intermediate school and that was a new year, new school, more expectations, etc.
Living here, I've noticed it in the fifth grade. That damn show does NOT help, either, let me tell ya. It puts a bit of pressure on that age group in one way, and then in another, they get the sense that they are smarter than you ...way too young.
So, the youngest kid is in the fifth grade this year and every freaking morning since the beginning of school we have damn near the same conversation. It starts the night before..the moaning and the groaning and acting sick. I don't even want to get up in the morning sometimes, knowing how it's all going to end..with him crying...
Then in the morning, it's the same..moaning and groaning and whining...I'm siiiick. My ass, is what I think in my head, but what comes out of my mouth is..
Ok, but since you're up, why don't you take a shower and have breakfast and then we'll see how you're feeling then. Most mornings I just play along and coax him through, except for the bitchy week and then he's just gonna cry all morning because I have zero patience.
Lately, the homework has been a big issue for him. I have been fighting and fighting with him.
A few weeks ago...I quit. I quit fighting with him. He now has several zeros and is in danger of failing everything if he doesn't get this work done.
Those zeros...spoke a hell of a lot louder than my nagging. Well, the combination of them both. I told him every day I was on his ass because I want him to do well. He didn't believe me. He just thought I was being mean to him or picking on him or whatever.
Sometimes, you have to ...show... them. Let them feel the pain. Now, if they don't care that they have zeroes, that's a different problem altogether.
I wrote a note to his teacher and she sent home all his missing work and would you believe..that boy flung his little arms around me and said Thank You? Ha! He got half of it done in one afternoon for crying out loud. And he learned the lesson that if you just do a little bit at a time, then you don't have to sweat it. You have as much free time as you had before and it's better because it isn't clouded with worry about what you haven't done yet.
Anyway, sometimes, I do let my children fail. Children should understand failure, how it occurs and what to do about it, and therefore how to prevent it. It's better to teach that to them young...while you still have a chance to turn it around. The lesson remains a lot longer, too.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
A Day In The Life...
Let me tell y'all about a day in the life here. Normally, I'm up by 5:30 am on weekday mornings. I do a few morning chores and get the kids off to school. My littlest kid's bus comes at 7am sharp and he better be waiting. Poor bastard, eh? The kid and the bus driver. Wonder what time SHE has to get up?
After that is done, I piddle around the house thinking about food for the day, picking my chore that I'm going to do and thinking of something new and exciting to write about. I also take care of paperwork during this time. Pretty normal for the most part.
Except that because there is so many people living here, getting a chance to concentrate is slim to none anymore.
The other morning, I was piddling in my closet that day. It was about 10am and I heard voices downstairs. I really thought nothing of it. I thought it was the boys just got up and getting ready for the next round of people leaving. So, I went downstairs to see if they wanted some food and realized quickly that it wasn't my sons and husband talking, as I had first surmised.
We had company. A couple of guys wearing black jackets and pants. Strangers to me. The senior chief was engaged in conversation with them about the particular game he happened to be playing. Call of Duty, I believe. They both turned and said hello in greeting to me and promptly put their attention back on the task at hand, figuring out who was shooting the senior chief and where were they...
I thought they were the local religious people come to call. I thought to myself "Oh GAWD, who let THEM in." But, having a social skill or two...and that's about it, really...I didn't say that out loud.
I sidled over to the college kid and asked him real quiet what time he had to leave for school and yada, yada, yada. He answered and told me he was putting the finishing touches on his paper. Then I asked who our visitors were and he's all...
"Oh, they're cops. They say there has been some stolen tv's in the neighborhood.."
"Oh really", says I. "That sucks."
Nothing like a visit from the local constabulary to spice up an otherwise dull day.
The senior chief at that point was doing the walkthrough on the game and wrapping the conversation up...(how did I not spot the big guns they were carrying?) and with a wave, on their merry way they went.
Ok, wierd, huh? I mean, I don't even live in a neighborhood..first of all. And second, crime is just really unheard of around here. That kind of crime anyway. Not on my street. We all kinda know each other because it's a street. We know which cars belong and which don't. There's a lot of folks around here who are at home all day.... Someone would notice someone not belonging and believe you me, something would be said. I like my neighbors. There's this unspoken thing, yet nobody has to really talk to each other. One of my daughters friends live about 2 doors down and I've met that lady exactly twice. Just long enough for us both to be assured that our kids were safe at either house. She had a lot on her plate and I have a lot on mine...
However, I digress...It was puzzling enough to me as it was. It got even more so when the senior chief informed me that they were at our house because they received an "anonymous tip" that we were running stolen televisions out of here. The senior chief toured them around and they were a little upset with their anonymous source, apparently. I came in at the end, but I guess they didn't get much farther than the sweet camaro before they knew they had been mislead. I'm pretty sure I know who it is...did I mention that my eldest broke up with his girlfriend right before Christmas and moved back home?
Yep, he did and he's hanging on the futon, bless his heart. He's not happy, but he's better than he was.
According to my other son, whoever sent that anonymous tip, just screwed themselves royally around here. Resources are slim, they do not like being used for revenge purposes.
Karma...
After that is done, I piddle around the house thinking about food for the day, picking my chore that I'm going to do and thinking of something new and exciting to write about. I also take care of paperwork during this time. Pretty normal for the most part.
Except that because there is so many people living here, getting a chance to concentrate is slim to none anymore.
The other morning, I was piddling in my closet that day. It was about 10am and I heard voices downstairs. I really thought nothing of it. I thought it was the boys just got up and getting ready for the next round of people leaving. So, I went downstairs to see if they wanted some food and realized quickly that it wasn't my sons and husband talking, as I had first surmised.
We had company. A couple of guys wearing black jackets and pants. Strangers to me. The senior chief was engaged in conversation with them about the particular game he happened to be playing. Call of Duty, I believe. They both turned and said hello in greeting to me and promptly put their attention back on the task at hand, figuring out who was shooting the senior chief and where were they...
I thought they were the local religious people come to call. I thought to myself "Oh GAWD, who let THEM in." But, having a social skill or two...and that's about it, really...I didn't say that out loud.
I sidled over to the college kid and asked him real quiet what time he had to leave for school and yada, yada, yada. He answered and told me he was putting the finishing touches on his paper. Then I asked who our visitors were and he's all...
"Oh, they're cops. They say there has been some stolen tv's in the neighborhood.."
"Oh really", says I. "That sucks."
Nothing like a visit from the local constabulary to spice up an otherwise dull day.
The senior chief at that point was doing the walkthrough on the game and wrapping the conversation up...(how did I not spot the big guns they were carrying?) and with a wave, on their merry way they went.
Ok, wierd, huh? I mean, I don't even live in a neighborhood..first of all. And second, crime is just really unheard of around here. That kind of crime anyway. Not on my street. We all kinda know each other because it's a street. We know which cars belong and which don't. There's a lot of folks around here who are at home all day.... Someone would notice someone not belonging and believe you me, something would be said. I like my neighbors. There's this unspoken thing, yet nobody has to really talk to each other. One of my daughters friends live about 2 doors down and I've met that lady exactly twice. Just long enough for us both to be assured that our kids were safe at either house. She had a lot on her plate and I have a lot on mine...
However, I digress...It was puzzling enough to me as it was. It got even more so when the senior chief informed me that they were at our house because they received an "anonymous tip" that we were running stolen televisions out of here. The senior chief toured them around and they were a little upset with their anonymous source, apparently. I came in at the end, but I guess they didn't get much farther than the sweet camaro before they knew they had been mislead. I'm pretty sure I know who it is...did I mention that my eldest broke up with his girlfriend right before Christmas and moved back home?
Yep, he did and he's hanging on the futon, bless his heart. He's not happy, but he's better than he was.
According to my other son, whoever sent that anonymous tip, just screwed themselves royally around here. Resources are slim, they do not like being used for revenge purposes.
Karma...
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Had To Try It Once
But, I'd say drunk blogging is not gonna win me any Pulitzer prizes. Hey, it's all part of this grand experiment we call life.
Like most American's I always have a lot on my plate and mind...but my motto is to keep on trucking so it really doesn't bother me too terribly much.
Sometimes the more pressing duties of the day just keeps my mind off the bigger picture. For that I am grateful. Believe me, you try to help six grouchy people get where they want to get and on time and with all that they need to get there. Everything from homework to invoices.
And let me testify that 10 year old boys are nasty creatures. If you do manage to get them into the shower, then you have to actually sniff them to make sure that they did, indeed, use soap. Yes, I think all mothers know how to do the sniff test. The older boys SWEAR I have more patience than I did with them but I don't really think so.
I'm good for saying stuff about 3 times. The fourth time, I'm saying it loud and I better see some high stepping. Those poor kids, when they were younger, sometimes would be the fourth kid in line to say the same thing and would get the ass chewing.
Now, I only have one doing it to me, so it just seems like I have more patience. It's a myth...
And, then, there's the never ending food. Holy cow, I am always thinking of the next meal while fixing the one I'm fixing. I had meatball subs for the game the other night...one of them says a 6 inch sub was an appetizer. Oh lordy. These people of mine can assuredly eat some food. Shoot, they don't stop growing until they are 22. That's a fact. And, so that means there's always a run on the milk and cookies, eh? They need that milk...I buy as much milk as I did when I had babies...that is a fact. They don't drink quite that much but a gallon a day is normal.
Anyway, every day issues kind of supercede what may or may not happen in the future. It's good to have a routine...
Like most American's I always have a lot on my plate and mind...but my motto is to keep on trucking so it really doesn't bother me too terribly much.
Sometimes the more pressing duties of the day just keeps my mind off the bigger picture. For that I am grateful. Believe me, you try to help six grouchy people get where they want to get and on time and with all that they need to get there. Everything from homework to invoices.
And let me testify that 10 year old boys are nasty creatures. If you do manage to get them into the shower, then you have to actually sniff them to make sure that they did, indeed, use soap. Yes, I think all mothers know how to do the sniff test. The older boys SWEAR I have more patience than I did with them but I don't really think so.
I'm good for saying stuff about 3 times. The fourth time, I'm saying it loud and I better see some high stepping. Those poor kids, when they were younger, sometimes would be the fourth kid in line to say the same thing and would get the ass chewing.
Now, I only have one doing it to me, so it just seems like I have more patience. It's a myth...
And, then, there's the never ending food. Holy cow, I am always thinking of the next meal while fixing the one I'm fixing. I had meatball subs for the game the other night...one of them says a 6 inch sub was an appetizer. Oh lordy. These people of mine can assuredly eat some food. Shoot, they don't stop growing until they are 22. That's a fact. And, so that means there's always a run on the milk and cookies, eh? They need that milk...I buy as much milk as I did when I had babies...that is a fact. They don't drink quite that much but a gallon a day is normal.
Anyway, every day issues kind of supercede what may or may not happen in the future. It's good to have a routine...
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